Fist-Pumping Polenta

February 16, 2011

When I brought a box of polenta home, Jim got so excited he did a fist-pump (which he may, or may not, admit to). I usually make something fun with polenta and this Sunday night was no different. I included my two current obsessions: Meyer Lemons (because, who isn’t?) and Serrano Chili Peppers. The recipe already called for lemon, but I added the serrano to (to quote a wise man), “kick it up a notch.” That it did. If you’re not a fan of heat, then you can easily leave it out, but take caution with the Andouille, as it’s often is on the spicy side. This delicious one-dish meal is perfect for during the week and pairs nicely with a tossed salad and a crisp white wine (and you can take yummy leftovers for lunch).

In a large saute pan on medium high heat add andouille sausage and cook all the way through – about five minutes.

Once the andouille is browned, add the diced onion and serrano chili and cook in the fat from the sausage for about three to five minutes or until the onions are translucent.

Add the chicken stock to the pan, and bring to a boil on high heat. Once the stock is boiling, slowly whisk in the polenta.

Reduce the heat of the pan and periodically stir the polenta to prevent clumping for about ten minutes or until the stock seems to have been absorbed by the polenta. (I use instant polenta so this just takes about a minute.)

Meanwhile, make the Dijon sauce by adding the white wine and heavy whipping cream to a smaller sauté pan on low heat. Whisk for about a minute, then add the Dijon, garlic paste, tarragon, and lemon zest. Continue to whisk for another few minutes so that all the ingredients are properly incorporated.

Stir the dijon sauce and chopped spinach into the polenta, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Top with a few pats of butter and season with some hefty pinches of salt and pepper. Serve as a side or make it your main course with a simple salad.

Sausage, Onion and Serranos sauteeing before adding chicken stock*

*Sorry for the not so great pic. Lost my camera charger in NOLA and using phone for now…